Domain+Narrative+Instructions

DOMAIN NARRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS:

The domain narrative reflection will serve as a holistic introduction and explanation of pieces of evidence included in each domain. In this introductory piece, you are sharing your current thinking about the connection between the piece of evidence and the knowledge, skills, and dispositions addressed in the targeted performance standards(s) in relation to the particular domain. The domain narrative should include a series of headings which state the "title" of the piece of evidence, and the domain, component(s), and element(s) which each respective piece of evidence addresses. All of these should be identified by both name and number. In addition, a brief description of each piece of evidence including the context (e.g., when it was created, in which course, for what purpose) should be included in this listing. Within the domain narrative you should clearly and concisely analyze and reflect on the progression of your understanding of each domain, component and element as demonstrated by the selected pieces of evidence. Meaningful incorporation of pertinent theorists and professional literature should be included. The domain narrative may follow the following template:

__ Description: __ List each component, element, and matching evidence piece. Provide a brief description of each evidence piece including course and semester completed.

__ First paragraph: __ Introduction to domain, identification of influences and themes (linking back to Preface), statement of thesis. The thesis statement tells what you will prove or what you believe about your teaching practice as it connects to the domain/component/element/evidence. Include specific connections among and between domain evidence pieces and components/elements.

__ Body of Domain Entry Slip: __ __ Analysis and Reflection __ Includes 1-2 paragraphs per evidence piece/element/component identified. Explains the specific performance standard(s) the evidence illustrates, including domain and component(s) addressed. (No more than 1-2 components should be identified for a particular piece of evidence.) Support your thesis with specific facts and examples from your associated evidence pieces, graduate experiences, readings, etc. Provides your reflection on the evidence and its connection to the performance standard(s). Remember this is not a reflection of the evidence piece in isolation, but a reflection of the evidence piece within the context of the whole of the domain and your entire graduate program. Your reflection might include responses to/ reflection on the following questions:

* Why did I select this particular piece of evidence? How does it relate to this component and element?

* How does the piece of evidence connect to what I know and believe about the standards highlighted in the TESOL Domains?

* How did this influence me as a reflective practitioner? How will this affect my future teaching?

* What connections did I make between theory and practice?

* What did I learn that will help me become a better educator of English language learners?

* How does this link with the themes identified in my portfolio's preface? Be sure to provide a sense of cohesion/interconnectivity throughout the domain narrative (i.e., attention to transitions, comprehensive theme, etc.).

__ Concluding paragraph __ Include an articulation of synthesis to fully complete the demonstration of your understanding/reflection/impact of the domain. You should include a restatement of thesis. Focus on your past/present/future experiences, carefully and specifically examining your thesis in order to find a new understanding about its significance. Express the meaning and value of the domain’s total experience.


 * CHECKLIST for each domain narrative ** :

Did you clearly state your thesis in the first paragraph? Did you clearly make connections: to theorists? to your themes? to your other domains/components? Did you demonstrate insight? Did you use transition sentences between all paragraphs? Did you show your evolution as a professional educator? Did you create new knowledge and/or understandings? Do you have a strong concluding paragraph? Is your writing CLEAR, CONVINCING, and CONCISE?